The Benefits of Young Adult Novels

Young adult novels will always be one of the most successful niches in the marketplace. With roots dating back to the early 1800s, it is clear that there will always be a demand among young adult readers of all ages. While reading in general promotes literacy, vocabulary expansion and overall comprehension skills, there are many other benefits to reading young adult fiction novels that people who have yet to read a book from the genre are most likely unaware of.

Despite criticism for what is sometimes deemed mature content, the same themes that are prevalent in young adult novels can teach teens life lessons in a way that can positively influence them. Getting to know a character and experiencing their predicaments and problem-solving makes teens feel that they’re not alone and that there are those that empathize with their own life issues—if it’s written about, even if it’s fiction, there is a strong chance that author or someone they know experienced a similar situation. Even the best fantasy novels can provide insight and inspiration, despite what may be a post-apocalyptic, dystopian or sci-fi setting.

Young adult fiction books are also beneficial to adolescents because the issues tackled can help them deal with their own real-life social issues and those of self-discovery. When readers take a journey with similar characters and watch them succeed in life, this can give a sense of hope to those experiencing self- doubt and insecurities.

The best fantasy novels can also provide an escape from the reader’s real life problems and provide a sense of security and comfort as they immerse themselves in another’s complex life. As technology continues to develop, along with it comes new sets of issues, such as cyber bullying, stalking and other problems caused by social networking. Thankfully, the themes among young adult novels are evolving to include these same issues and offer real solutions and exposure to these problems.

As long as young adult fiction novels continue to cover real life situations and themes, demand will continue and there will always be new trends for creating settings, characters and plot. If the stories and characters resonate with readers, this genre is here for the long haul.